Recruiting Report 8.29.11

DL John Atkins of Thomson, GA will announce his college decision Friday morning at 8:00 AM at a news conference at his school. His finalists are Clemson, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Auburn and Florida. Atkins said Sunday night he had not yet made the decision. “I’m taking this week to see who is out front,” Atkins said. “Where I feel most at home,” he said will be his deciding factor. “Georgia, Georgia Tech and Auburn treated me like I was at home,” during his visits there. He did not get to Clemson this summer but Atkins said that won’t hurt the Tigers’ chances. “I’ve been liking Clemson since I was younger,” he said. “I like how they produce defensive linemen.” Atkins said of his finalists Georgia Tech has recruited him the hardest. He said he will make his decision in consultation with his family.

RB Brent O’Neal of Petersburg, FL has a top three of The Citadel, Wofford and Florida International and he told Rivals.com he’s favoring the Bulldogs. He rushed for 1235 yards and 17 touchdowns last season.

BASEBALL NEWS:

The USC baseball team picked up its fifth commitment for the 2013 class Sunday with a pledge from 3B-OF Jae Roberts (5-11 175) of Hammond Academy. Roberts is a highly regarded prospect who was named a second team underclassman pre-season All American before his summer schedule with Canes Baseball. PerfectGame.com offered up this review on Roberts:

“Joseph Jae Roberts is a 2013 OF/3B with a 5-11 195 lb. frame from Columbia, SC who attends Hammond School. Athletic build with broad shoulders, very strong lower half. Right handed hitter, big shoulder tuck load, long swing with strong explosive hands at contact, creates bat speed, looks to lift the ball, leverage and explosion at contact. 6.88 runner, has some outfield arm strength, accurate throws, solid actions. Can also play third base, athletic quickness, enough arm strength, long arm and release. Power is his tool. Good student.”